Most mosquito bites are harmless and cause only itching and a little bump on your skin. Over-the-counter (OTC) creams and ointments can help provide rapid relief from the discomfort.
Many items you might have around your house can also help decrease symptoms such as itching, inflammation, and discomfort. Examples of home remedies that can help with mosquito bites include:
Cold or hot compress
Applying a cold compress or ice to the mosquito bite can reduce inflammation and itching. You can apply a cold compress to the bite for 10 minutes and repeat whenever needed. When you apply the cold compress, you should place a washcloth or towel between your skin and the ice to prevent potential skin damage.
Applying a heated pad or a hot water bottle to the mosquito bite may provide relief. Similar to cold packs, heat can be applied to the affected area for about 10 minutes, and you can repeat if needed.
Baking soda paste
You can mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda powder, also known as sodium bicarbonate, with a little water to create a paste. You can then apply it to the bite and leave it for 10 minutes before washing your skin.
This mixture should provide relief from the bite. However, you should stop using this treatment if your skin becomes irritated.
Oatmeal baths
Oatmeal contains certain compounds that can relieve irritation and soothe skin. Bathing in oatmeal or using an oatmeal paste may help stop itching.
To prepare an oatmeal paste, mix equal parts water and oatmeal. Then, apply the mix to the bite and let it rest for 10 minutes before cleaning.
Taking an oatmeal bath may be a better option if you have multiple bites on your body. Add 1 cup of ground oats or oatmeal to a bathtub full of warm water. Then soak your body in the oatmeal bath for at least 20 minutes.
Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help soothe mosquito bites. You need to apply only a small amount of honey to the bite. This may potentially reduce itching and inflammation.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel can help to treat skin injuries such as insect bites. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can cut open a small section of the plant, collect some gel, and apply it to the bite. The gel will eventually dry and absorb into your skin. You can apply it again if needed.
You can also use a store-bought aloe vera-based gel, which can have similar benefits. This can be purchased from most pharmacies and health stores.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that is widely available in grocery stores and pharmacies without a prescription. This product contains antioxidants known as tannins, which can reduce skin inflammation. Applying a small amount of witch hazel to the bite may soothe itching and irritation.
Thyme
Thyme leaves contain compounds with antibacterial properties. These can help reduce the risk of infecting and irritating the skin around the mosquito bite.
To apply thyme to the bite, you can either use freshly chopped leaves and place them on the bite or boil thyme and soak a clean washcloth in the concentrated liquid before applying it to your skin.
Regardless of the method, you should let thyme rest on the mosquito bite for at least 10 minutes before gently wiping the skin clean.
Basil
Basil has antioxidant properties that can help treat skin infections. Applying freshly chopped basil leaves to the mosquito bite may reduce inflammation and relieve itching. However, you should stop if this irritates your skin.
You can also prepare a basil rub by boiling half an ounce of dried basil into 2 cups of water. When the liquid is cool, soak a washcloth in it and apply it to the mosquito bite.
Chamomile tea paste
Chamomile is a herb that comes from the daisy family. It is commonly consumed by being brewed into tea. Turning the plant into a paste may help with mosquito bites, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe itching.
To prepare a chamomile tea paste, follow these steps:
- Open a chamomile tea bag and mix it into a cup of water.
- Let it rest for 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Collect the crushed chamomile flowers and squeeze out any excess water.
- Apply the paste to the affected area for about 10 minutes.
- Gently wipe your skin clean with a wet washcloth.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy for a wide range of symptoms. It can help reduce itching and burning while disinfecting your skin and reducing the risk of infection around the bite area.
To apply apple cider vinegar to the mosquito bite, soak a washcloth in a mix of vinegar and cold water and apply it to your skin. If you have multiple bites, consider taking a bath in the mixture. To do this, add 2 cups of vinegar to the warm water in your bathtub. Then, soak your body in it for about 20 minutes.
What medications can help?
If natural home remedies do not provide any relief from mosquito bites, several topical creams and medications can help relieve itching and inflammation.
If you develop a stronger reaction from the mosquito bite, consider taking an oral OTC antihistamine. These medications can help reduce the release of histamines in your body, relieving the itching and burning sensation you may experience because of the mosquito bite.
OTC antihistamine medications for mosquito bites may include cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin). You can also buy an OTC topical cream, such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream.
If you develop more severe symptoms like an allergic reaction, it’s important to speak with a doctor as soon as possible. They can assess your symptoms and suggest a suitable treatment option to prevent the reaction from worsening.
If you need help covering the cost of medications, the free Optum Perks Discount Card could help you save up to 80% on prescription drugs. Follow the links on drug names for savings on that medication, or search for a specific drug here.
